Finland: Scientists in Finland successfully transmitted electricity without wires using ultrasonic sound waves and a laser beam.
Finland, a Nordic state, is poised to be at the leading edge of the wireless energy revolution. Scientists from the University of Helsinki and the University of Oulu have developed techniques for wirelessly transmitting power.
One of the most fascinating applications involves using high-intensity ultrasonic sound waves to guide invisible paths through the air by directing electrical sparks along a desired route.
Although still at the experimental stage, this so-called ‘acoustic wire’ technology would, at least in theory, allow electrical devices to be connected without any contact or wiring.
Aside from sound-guided energy, another area that Finland is tapping to address through power issues is light and radio frequencies. The private sector is now developing “power by light” technologies that use high-powered lasers to broadcast electricity to distant receivers, which require significant galvanic isolation in hazardous environments such as nuclear power stations and high-voltage substations.
Meanwhile, breakthroughs in radio frequency harvesting are being applied to convert ambient signals into “Wi-Fi for power,” dispensing with millions of used and disposable batteries for low-power sensors in Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
Together, these advancements point toward a future of cable-free, flexible energy systems for global industry.
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